A group of volunteers made holiday dreams come true for the fourth year in a row when they threw a holiday party on December 17 for children served by Community Mental Health Affiliates' (CMHA) Child & Family Services programs in New Britain. The event has become a welcomed tradition for CMHA staff and clients.

The children enjoyed games, crafts, face painting, caricature portraits, and pizza and holiday treats. There were hundreds of books donated by the community for the kids to take home, and each child also received a customized bag of gifts from Santa himself.

The joy was apparent in the smiles of these children who struggle with behavioral health issues and don't always have a reason to smile. Almost all of the children served by CMHA programs are from disadvantaged families - many of whom do not have the means to provide gifts or a festive meal during the holidays. The volunteer team made certain that the children had an unforgettable holiday experience.

Community Mental Health Affiliates, Inc. (CMHA) is a private non-profit provider of mental health and substance abuse treatment. CMHA is headquartered in New Britain, with 13 locations in 3 cities and towns throughout northwest and central Connecticut. CMHA provides treatment for more than 6,000 children, adolescents and adults each year. Visit cmhacc.org to learn more.